The Creation and Evolution of the Declaration of Independence
The Declaration of Independence, one of the most significant documents in American history, was primarily drafted by Thomas Jefferson in June 1776. This pivotal document declares the independence of the thirteen American colonies from Great Britain and outlines the reasons for this separation. The process from conception to adoption was a collaborative effort, marked by revisions and edits from various members of the Continental Congress. Thomas Jefferson's initial draft was refined and ultimately adopted on July 4, 1776. This article explores the timeline and details of this historical document's creation, focusing on the pivotal role of Thomas Jefferson.
The Initiation: June 7, 1776
John Adams played a crucial role in initiating the process of drafting the Declaration of Independence. On June 7, 1776, he moved before the Second Continental Congress that a declaration of independence should be prepared. Adams chose Thomas Jefferson to undertake the task primarily because of Jefferson's prowess as a writer and his reputation as a public speaker. Franklin and Adams were initially considered to draft the Declaration, but Franklin opted out, giving Jefferson the responsibility to pen the document.
Jefferson's Draft and Revisions
Jefferson began working on the draft in the early weeks of June, during a period of intense heat in Philadelphia. In his draft, Jefferson set forth a vigorous condemnation of King George III for his treatment of the American colonies. One of the controversial clauses in Jefferson's original draft harshly criticized the British monarch for perpetrating enslavement on both Africans and Americans alike. However, the final version of the Declaration did not include any reference to slavery. Jefferson's original language on this issue indicates his personal views and the complex situation at the time. The exclusion of these clauses was a strategic decision by the Continental Congress to maintain unity and avoid alienating certain colonies.
The Final Draft: July 4, 1776
After Jefferson completed his draft, it was reviewed and edited by the Committee of Five—Jefferson, Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Roger Livingston. Franklin was known for his eloquent prose and his ability to simplify complex ideas into succinct and memorable phrases. His editing contributed significantly to the final version of the Declaration, particularly in reducing the number of words and improving the clarity of the document's message. The most famous phrase, “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal…” was a result of these editorial refinements.
The Compilation of the Final Document
After the final revisions, the Continental Congress debated and ultimately approved the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. This process involved not only the Committee of Five but also the broader Congress. The document was then sent to printers for publication and circulation throughout the colonies. The Declaration of Independence not only served as a formal declaration of independence but also as a foundational document that inspired future generations to strive for equality and justice.
Conclusion
The Declaration of Independence was a product of a collaborative effort, with Thomas Jefferson's initial draft serving as the cornerstone. The document's creation was not just a matter of drafting but also a process of compromise and strategic editing to ensure the unity and cohesion needed amongst the colonies. This article has explored the key phases and players involved in the drafting and ultimate adoption of the Declaration of Independence, highlighting the significant contributions of each individual and the pivotal role of Thomas Jefferson.